Alcohol free festival returning to Cork 

ECSTATIC PICNIC, an alcohol-free festival that promises to be a space to lean into joy and to let go of what is ready to fall away, is returning to Cork on November 12, from 12pm to 5pm.

People who do not drink alcohol and would like to make more sober friends, or those planning a dry November, are invited by the organisers at Golden Space to “come and celebrate life”.

“Our first Ecstatic Picnic was a magical experience, a collaborative effort of creative minds that left an imprint on our hearts — we are so excited to share with you that we’re bringing this Somatic Playground to the centre of Cork city,” said event manager Naoise Galvin.

The event will take place in Gaia Cork, which is named after the Greek goddess of the earth. 

Non-alcoholic cocktails will be available for purchase during the event.

It will begin with a Golden Space connection ceremony, following by a guided elemental movement meditation, both of which will be facilitated by Ms Galvin, a mum of two from Cork.

At Golden Space, she collaborates with experts to build nourished, creative, and connected community through mediums such as dance, retreats, and 1:1 sessions, with her work including corporate wellness events, festivals, zen hens, and wellness facilitation in the charity sector.

An ecstatic dance session will follow, to a soundscape created by DJ Natmac, who specialises in crafting deep bass and uplifting sounds while fostering a strong and positive atmosphere at every event. As well as being a regular presence on the Cork scene, Natmac has been playing and supporting events all over the world.

Retreat chef Rosie, who has been working in an education centre with vulnerable women teaching nutrition and cooking for two years, will be serving freshly prepared “scrumptious soul food” at the vegetarian bohemian picnic.

The festival will finish with a community market from 4pm to 5pm, with people encouraged to bring their own crafts and expand their network.

• Tickets are available at Eventbrite.